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Kythera... the hidden castle cities!

MIRTO MANTA - Monday, March 07, 2016

A trip to Kythera is definitely a journey through time. The three castles of Kythera will take you to a journey through the Middle Ages. These castle cities
stand for centuries as the "commander" of the passes of the island. Imposing locations, passages and remains of a bygone era yet exciting stories that
give life to myths and legends. Get a taste ... and do not forget to visit them!!!

1. Castle of Chora

The Castle of Chora or "Fortezza" is one of the most important monuments of Kythira. It is located in the south, near the capital of the island with panoramic
view of the Ionian, Aegean and Cretan Sea.

Its construction began under Venetian rule during the 13th century on the ruins of an earlier Byzantine castle and gradually completed at various times.

Inside the castle you can see the prisons, the gun powder shelter, the cistern, churches (as the Pantokratoras and the Panagia Myrtidiotissa), the government
house, ruins of houses and mansions and also many cannons.

In the government house lies today the Historical Archive of Kythera, one of the most important in Greece.

2. Castle of Kato Chora (Mylopotamos)

The Castle of Kato Chora is in west of the island near the village of Mylopotamos. It was built in 1565, during the Venetian rule.

Characteristic is the lion of Agios Markos that adorns the entrance of the Castle and represents the famous emblem of Venice.

The internal Byzantine settlement actually takes you to another era as many of the houses which were inhabited until the late 50s, are still in good condition.

During the afternoon this medieval landscape gets bathed with the beautiful colors of the sunset which dives in the Ionian Sea.

3. Castle of Palaiochora

The Castle of Paleochora is located in the northwest over the deep gorge of Kakia Lagada that reaches the sea and is one of the most beautiful sights.
During Byzantine times it was the capital of Kythera, called Agios Demetrius.

Built in the 12th century by Monemvasians it was designed to shelter residents from the terrible pirates of the era. However the castle was sacked in 1537
by the Admiral of the Turkish fleet Barbarossa. and since then people believed that the place was cursed and was never rebuilt.

You can walk among the ruins and enjoy a landscape of unique beauty.

Extra Tip: You can find more information for these places and for many more in the Go! Kythera Travel Guide Application which you can download for free on the App Store or Play Store!